Four companies – Air Products, Allied Oxycare/Medigas, BOC and Linde – have been awarded contracts to modernise services for patients with breathing difficulties and needing oxygen therapy at home by the end of the year.
Across England around 60,000 people with long-term respiratory conditions such as cystic fibrosis and emphysema require specialised oxygen equipment at home and without it would effectively be forced to live in hospital.
Patients will be provided with lighter weight cylinders, smaller, more efficient concentrators, liquid oxygen and for the first time, portable systems that allow greater mobility and independence.
Health Minister, Jane Kennedy, said: The new services will ensure that patients have access to the latest equipment that meets their individual needs and helps to improve their quality of life. Patients want to be at home and we want them to have the confidence and support to manage their symptoms at home.
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